About .autos domain
.autos is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated under ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry operator is Dominion Enterprises (DERAutos, LLC), with Afilias providing backend registry services. It was delegated to the root zone in May 2014. The TLD operates as a standard, unrestricted domain product available through accredited registrars.
Who can register .autos domain
Registration for .autos domains is open to the general public with no eligibility restrictions. Any individual, business, or organization worldwide can register a .autos domain name. No specific verification of connection to the automotive industry is required. The registry does not impose geographic or trademark-based prerequisites for registration.
How to register .autos domain
- Search for your desired .autos domain name using a registrar's availability checker to confirm it is not already registered or reserved as a premium name.
- Compare pricing, registration term options (typically 1-10 years), and add-on services like WHOIS privacy protection from various ICANN-accredited registrars.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by ICANN policy.
- After purchase, manage your domain through the registrar's control panel to configure DNS settings, such as nameservers, to connect your domain to a website or email service.
Typical uses of .autos domain
The .autos extension is commonly used by businesses, professionals, and enthusiasts within the automotive industry. Car dealerships, repair shops, parts retailers, detailing services, and automotive media outlets frequently choose .autos for its immediate topical relevance. It provides a clear, industry-specific alternative to broader extensions like .com, helping websites signal their automotive focus directly within their web address.
Tips for registering .autos domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with multi-year registration options available up to ten years.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, but domains may be subject to a 60-day transfer lock following registration or a change of registrant.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available through most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact details from the public WHOIS database.
- The registry may operate a sunrise period for trademark holders and may reserve certain premium domain names, which could be priced higher than standard registrations.
Frequently asked questions about .autos domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .autos domain?
As of today, .autos domains start from $1.24/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $999.99/yr across 26 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.
Which registrars support .autos domains?
NameBeta tracks 26 registrars that support .autos domain registration, with the cheapest option at $1.24/yr. Full list on this page.
Who operates .autos domain?
The registry for .autos domains is XYZ, administered by XYZ.COM LLC.
Who can register a .autos domain?
Anyone can register a .autos domain without proving a connection to the automotive sector. The TLD is marketed as an open, generic extension, so registrants can be individuals, companies, or entities from any country. There are no content restrictions mandating that the website must be automotive-related.
Can I transfer a .autos domain between registrars?
Transferring a .autos domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN inter-registrar transfer policy. You must ensure the domain is unlocked at the current registrar and obtain the correct authorization code (EPP code). Transfers are typically prohibited for 60 days after initial registration or after a registrant name change to prevent unauthorized moves.
Are there any special rights protection mechanisms for trademark owners?
The registry implemented rights protection mechanisms aligned with ICANN requirements. These include a Sunrise Period for trademark owners to secure corresponding domains before general availability and the Trademark Claims service to notify potential registrants of possible trademark conflicts. The Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) and Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) also apply to .autos domains.
What happens if I forget to renew my .autos domain?
After expiration, your domain typically enters a renewal grace period (often 30-45 days) where you can renew it at the standard rate. If not renewed, it then enters a redemption grace period where recovery is possible for an additional fee. Finally, if still not recovered, the domain is deleted and becomes available for public registration again.
Can I register premium .autos domain names?
Yes, the registry may designate certain short, generic, or highly desirable .autos names as "premium." These domains are often priced higher than standard registrations, both initially and upon renewal. Premium pricing is set by the registry, and availability and fees can be checked through your chosen registrar's search tool.